WCE Battle of Seattle: Top Performers

West Coast Elite Battle in Seattle

15U National:

GAME Winner Basketball 15U:

GWB 15U had an impressive performance throughout the tournament. Despite their loss in the semifinals, they showcased their tenacity and competitiveness by consistently coming back from deficits. Their effective 2-3 zone defense caused significant problems for opposing teams, forcing them to settle for outside shots. The team excelled in transition, with their point guards, Malachi Patton and Drew Ibarreta, leading the charge. Both players demonstrated their ability to create scoring opportunities for themselves and their teammates, consistently penetrating the paint. The bigs, along with their versatile player Riley Graunitz, played a crucial role in setting screens and making an impact on both ends of the court.

Rotary Select 15U:

Rotary impressed with their intense defense, exhibiting physicality and relentless ball pressure. Their defensive activity led to numerous turnovers and easy transition points. The team's size and athleticism at every position allowed them to guard multiple positions effectively. In the semifinals, Rotary displayed exceptional shooting skills, with multiple players hitting three or more three-pointers. Additionally, their ability to finish above the rim added another dimension to their offensive game. While they fell short in the championship game against a formidable opponent, their performance throughout the tournament was commendable.

VanPort Rebels:

Vanport had an impressive tournament, defeating strong teams en route to their semifinal exit and finishing 3rd in the division. Their size advantage was notable, possibly making them the biggest team in the division. Syrius Owens led the team with his athleticism, lanky frame, and active presence on offensive boards. Landon Irwin put pressure on defenses with his downhill drives to his right. Kingston Paschal contributed as a versatile player, while Noah Atherton provided consistent shooting throughout the weekend.

Hoop Land 15u:

Hoop Land 15u proved to be a well-rounded team, combining size, skill, toughness, and strong coaching. Their defensive prowess was evident throughout the tournament, as they kept opponents in front, rotated effectively, and contested shots. On offense, they displayed excellent ball movement, patience, and execution, particularly in crucial moments of the championship game. Quentin Mosby and Ira Smith stood out with their scoring abilities. Mosby showcased his deep shooting range and attacking skills off the dribble, while Smith, a crafty lefty, made crucial shots down the stretch. The team's guards handled pressure well and took care of the ball. Brody Pierpoint was another bright spot for them. He played well and showed a solid skillset. Congratulations to Hoop Land for their exceptional performance and well-deserved championship title.

16U National:

Seattle Select 16U UA:

Seattle Select showcased an exceptional level of talent and cohesion. Led by floor general Leyton Martin, they dominated games and secured the championship. Davis Fogle and Landon Birley, both long wings, made significant contributions with their scoring ability. Birley excelled as a spot-up threat and displayed sneaky athleticism, while Fogle was a versatile scorer from all three levels. Parker Mills stood out as a skilled big man with soft touch around the rim.

Big Drip:

Big Drip displayed a hardworking and physical style of play throughout the tournament. Despite their loss in the championship game, they showed great effort. Carter Hansen, a small guard, proved to be a major spot-up threat. Kenyon Simmons excelled as a downhill slasher and competed fiercely on the defensive end. Sebastian Arius, at 6'5", showcased solid shooting skills and the ability to attack the paint.

17U Platinum:

Local Hoops:

Local Hoops may not have appeared formidable initially, but their team's motor and high-level competitiveness were evident on the court. They played harder than anyone else and made a strong run to the semifinals. Although they lost to the eventual champions, their performance was noteworthy.

Seattle Select 17U UA:

Seattle Select showcased their superiority in the division, not only in terms of talent but also in their exceptional team play. Their fluid body and ball movement stood out, distinguishing them from the isolation-heavy style commonly seen in AAU basketball. With a roster featuring a legitimate six to seven college-level players, they executed offensive sets and defensive coverages with precision. Maintaining composure in the face of opponents' scoring runs, they displayed their maturity as a team. Bo Ginet's ability to penetrate and create opportunities for layups or dump-off passes, Jalen Dollar's smooth game and effective leadership as a scoring point guard, Jamari Harris' explosive athleticism and highlight-reel finishes, and Malcolm Clark's versatile defensive skills were all instrumental in Seattle Select's success.

WCE:

Despite being undersized compared to other teams, WCE showcased their defensive prowess and intensity. They caused problems for opponents with their activity and physicality. Offensively, they displayed confidence and had multiple slashers who attacked the rim. Gabe Carrejo stood out with his craftiness and ability to create off the dribble, while Terrell Tek relentlessly hunted paint touches as a slashing lefty. Their bigs battled against larger opponents with their athleticism.

E24:

E24, despite missing some key players, still managed to reach the semifinals. They were led by a left-handed guard who caused problems for opponents with his ability to attack the rim and excel in transition. They also had a strong presence in the paint with a forward who displayed a combination of strength and skill. He was effective in the post, showed good footwork, and could step out to the perimeter.